Youth basketball holds a special place in the hearts of many, serving as a foundation for skills, friendships, and unforgettable memories. In the latest episode of the State of Hoops podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow share their experiences and insights from their time on the youth basketball circuit, offering valuable lessons for parents, coaches, and young players alike.

The episode incorporates the popular "Chalk Talk", "Give and Go", and "Bleacher Preacher" segments, all focused on youth basketball centric content and dialogue. As always, the show wraps up with the Show-Out Shout-Out segment and a heartfelt thank-you to the sponsors who keep the game going.

State of Hoops Podcast Season 1 Sponsors: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame, Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate, Park Bench Apparel, Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman and Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants), and Insight.

Basketball fans are encouraged to connect with the hosts by email at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and to follow, like, subscribe, and engage with the State of Hoops Podcast on social media:

* YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

* Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

In this episode of the State of Hoops Podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow are joined by special guest Lance Luitjens for a meaningful conversation about the lasting impact of his father, legendary South Dakota high school basketball coach Larry Luitjens.

Few names in South Dakota basketball carry the weight and respect of Larry Luitjens. As the state’s all-time winningest boys basketball coach, his influence reached far beyond wins and championships. Through personal stories and thoughtful reflections, Lance offers a behind-the-scenes look at the values, relationships, and life lessons that defined his father’s coaching career.

Coach Luitjens’ legacy transcends banners and box scores. It is a legacy rooted in resilience, community, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His impact continues to shape generations of coaches and players, serving as a reminder that the true measure of success lies in the lives touched and values instilled along the way.

The episode also highlights the annual Larry Luitjens Coach of Influence Award, presented each March at the South Dakota High School Basketball Tournaments, and provides listeners with information on how to nominate a deserving coach for consideration in 2026.

As always, the show wraps up with the Show-Out Shout-Out segment and a heartfelt thank-you to the sponsors who keep the game going.State of Hoops Podcast Season 1 Sponsors:South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame, Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate, Park Bench Apparel, Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman and Zach Hanson, Financial Consultants), and Insight.

Basketball fans are encouraged to connect with the hosts by email at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and to follow, like, subscribe, and engage with the State of Hoops Podcast on social media:

*YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

*Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

*X: @StateofHoopsPod

In this episode of the State of Hoops Podcast, hosts Todd Schlekeway and Nate Malchow welcome college basketball TV analyst Brad Newitt for an in-depth look at the current collegiate hoops landscape. As conference play heats up, Brad provides insightful analysis on how South Dakota’s NCAA Division I and Division II men’s and women’s basketball programs are performing, and what their paths to March could look like.

The episode also features a spirited “Give and Go” segment centered on the future of the Summit League. As always, the show wraps up with the fan-favorite “Show-Out Shout-Out,” celebrating standout performances and moments from around the state.

A special thank you to our Season 1 sponsors who help keep the game going: South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame, Tiefenthaler Homes with Hegg Real Estate, Park Bench Apparel, Charles Schwab – Sioux Falls (Lonnie Struckman & Zach Hanson Financial Consultants), and Insight.

Basketball fans across South Dakota are encouraged to connect with the podcast via email at stateofhoopspodcast@gmail.com and follow along on social media:

* YouTube: @StateofHoopsPodcast

* Instagram: @state_of_hoops_podcast

* X: @StateofHoopsPod